This article explains what that actually means in practice, why it happens, and what you can do to increase the chance of getting the car you selected. It’s written for everyday renters, so you don’t need to know industry jargon. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for when booking and how to avoid unpleasant surprises at the counter.
The short answer: most companies reserve a category, not a specific car
In traditional car rental, reservations are usually tied to a vehicle class (such as Economy, Compact, Midsize, SUV, or Van). When you see a car photo during booking, it is often there to help you understand the size and style of the category. That is why many listings include the phrase “or similar.” It is not necessarily a trick—it reflects how fleets are managed and how availability changes throughout the day.
In simple terms, you are typically reserving a type of car, not a specific vehicle. Even if the booking shows a model name or a photo, the rental company may provide another vehicle that matches the category’s general specifications. Ideally, you should still receive something comparable in size, seating, trunk capacity, and key features such as automatic transmission or air conditioning. But unless the offer explicitly says the exact model is guaranteed, substitutions can happen.
Why rental companies don’t always guarantee the exact car
Fleet operations change constantly
Rental fleets are always moving. Cars return late, customers extend rentals, and some vehicles require extra cleaning or repairs. On top of that, busy locations sometimes transfer vehicles between branches to meet demand. Because of these realities, it is difficult for many companies to promise a specific make and model far in advance—especially in high-volume categories such as Economy or Compact.
From the company’s perspective, the priority is to fulfill reservations quickly and keep operations running smoothly. From the renter’s perspective, it can feel disappointing. In most cases, though, it is not personal—it is simply logistics.
The “example car” is usually a visual reference
Most booking platforms show a well-known car as an example of the category. This helps customers understand what to expect in terms of size and comfort, but it does not always mean that exact model is assigned to your reservation in the system. Many reservations are confirmed under a category code, not a unique vehicle identifier.
That is why reading the booking terms matters. If the listing or confirmation includes “or similar,” the provider is telling you upfront that the vehicle image is a reference point—not a guarantee.
Demand spikes and timing change what is available
Even if a location has many of the model you selected in the morning, availability can change by afternoon. Peak travel periods, holidays, flight delays, and last-minute bookings can shift inventory quickly. Popular models may be gone by the time you arrive, especially if you pick up late or during a rush.
The practical lesson is that timing and demand often matter as much as what you click online.
When you can get the exact car you selected
There are situations where the exact model is far more likely—or even truly guaranteed. The key is whether the provider clearly offers a Guaranteed Make & Model (or similar wording). If the offer explicitly says the exact car is guaranteed, you are paying for a higher level of certainty.
Exact-car guarantees are more common for premium rentals, specialty vehicles, and smaller fleets with tighter inventory control. Convertibles, vans, and 7–9 seat vehicles are sometimes managed more precisely because fewer substitutes exist. In peer-to-peer rentals, the listing typically represents a specific car, so you are more likely to get exactly what you selected.
Still, the safest approach is always the same: check whether “guaranteed” is stated in writing in the booking terms.
When you probably won’t get the exact car
If you book a standard category—especially Economy or Compact—the chance of substitution increases. These categories represent a large portion of most fleets and rotate quickly. Substitutions are also more common when people book last minute, travel during peak season, or pick up at very busy airport counters.
If you truly need something specific (for example, a large trunk, an automatic gearbox, or seven seats), focusing only on the model name can lead to disappointment. Instead, you should focus on confirmed requirements and features that the provider commits to deliver.
“Or similar” — what it really means (and what it should mean)
The phrase “or similar” is one of the most misunderstood parts of car rental. In a fair situation, “similar” means comparable in the ways that actually matter for your trip: vehicle size, number of seats, luggage space, transmission type, and basic comfort features.
For example, if you booked an automatic and they offer a manual, many travelers would consider that a meaningful mismatch. The same applies if you book a 7-seater and receive a 5-seater, or if you book an SUV expecting more luggage capacity and get something noticeably smaller. “Similar” should not mean “anything with four wheels.”
Understanding this phrase helps you set realistic expectations and avoid surprises at pickup.
How to maximize the chance of getting the car you chose
Book early, because early bookings influence planning
Booking earlier does not always lock an exact model, but it does improve your odds. Rental branches forecast demand using reservations. When they see higher demand for a category, they can allocate more vehicles to that location. Late bookings are often filled with whatever remains available, which increases substitution risk.
Confirm the requirements that matter most
Instead of focusing only on the brand or model name, focus on what you actually need. If you are traveling with family, lots of luggage, or long distances, the category and features matter more than the badge on the hood. Automatic transmission, luggage capacity, seat count, and fuel type are usually the biggest “deal breakers.”
Arrive on time (or call ahead if delayed)
Timing makes a real difference. At busy locations, vehicles are constantly being assigned to the next ready customer. If you arrive much later than planned, your preferred option may be given to someone else. If you know you will be delayed, calling ahead can sometimes help the branch hold the category longer.
What to do if you don’t get the car you expected
If you arrive and the desk offers a different model, start by comparing the offer to what you booked. In many cases, the substitute is equal or even better. But if it is clearly worse—smaller, fewer seats, manual instead of automatic, or less luggage capacity—you should politely ask what alternatives are available.
If the location cannot match what you booked, request one of the following outcomes: the correct category vehicle, a free upgrade, or a price adjustment if the substitute is a downgrade. It also helps to document the situation and request a note on the rental agreement if the replacement does not meet the booking terms.
This approach is calm, professional, and usually leads to the best outcome.
Conclusion: book smarter and avoid surprises
So, do car rental companies reserve the selected car? In most cases, they reserve a car category, not the exact model. That does not mean you will get something random—it means you should book based on category and confirmed requirements. When you understand “or similar,” book early, and arrive on time, the rental process becomes far smoother and more predictable.
If you want a more transparent booking experience with clear specs and support, book through VerusCars.
